SHELTON HERITAGE SOCIETY OF GEORGIA & HISTORIC POSSUM TROT, INC.
Ancestral Family of Hardy and Mary Bearden Shelton
Research. Advocacy. Legacy. Preservation. Community.
Photo Credit: Brant Sanderlin, Berry College
Preserving the Past. Enhancing the Present. Elevating the Future.
The Shelton Heritage Society of GA & Historic Possum Trot, Inc. is a nonprofit/nonstock corporation founded on the principle of restoration. We are committed to the preservation, promotion, documentation, research, and advocacy of the rich history and legacy of Hardy and Mary Bearden Shelton, including, but not limited to, highlighting both the family’s origin and descendant community’s contributions to agriculture, business, education, and community. Our work also encompasses the Shelton family's ties to the African diaspora, Indigenous heritage, enslavement, Coosa, Possum Trot (formerly known as Pleasant Hill), Virginia, North Carolina and the Cathey-Shelton Family Settlement in Robertson County, Texas and other regions where Hardy and Mary and their descendants settled. Through historical research, community service, advocacy, and educational initiatives, we seek to honor our ancestors, strengthen and reconnect family lines, and ensure that the family’s impact is recognized for generations to come. Informally affiliated with the research site Shelton Family Settlement at Possum Trot, of which our founder is the creator, we support all efforts to preserve and expand the knowledge of the Shelton family’s history.
SHS Celebrates African American History Month!
This African American History Month, the Shelton Heritage Society (SHS) proudly presents a dynamic series of events that honor the richness of our history and the enduring power of our stories. Join us for three thought-provoking programs that explore family legacy, community advocacy, and the lasting impact of historical design.
We begin with "Defending Our Legacy: Uncovering and Preserving the Cornerstone Stories in Your Family’s History" featuring renowned genealogist Andre Kearns on February 20 at 7:00 p.m. EST. Kearns, a public speaker, writer, and genealogist who has traced his roots back to 1619, will share invaluable insights on preserving family histories and uncovering the stories that form the bedrock of our identities.
Next, on February 22 at 7:00 p.m. EST, join us for "Descendant on Stage: Resilience and Community" Charlotte Shook, a dedicated community leader and advocate, will reflect on how her family history has shaped her advocacy work and inspired her commitment to justice, mental health awareness, and community engagement.
We conclude the series with "Segregation by Design" featuring Adam Paul Susaneck, an architect and Ph.D. candidate, on February 27 at 6:00 p.m. EST. Susaneck will explore how urban planning and infrastructure have been used as tools to enforce segregation in American cities, revealing the deep connections between design, history, and social equity.
Sign up for these impactful events below and join us as we raise awareness and honor this important history. All events are FREE and virtual.
Thank You for Celebrating 150 Years of Legacy with Us!
Thank you to everyone who took part in our 150th anniversary event. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your contributions. While our gathering was intimate, its impact was profound. Every shared story, conversation, and moment of reflection played a vital role in preserving and honoring the rich legacy of the Shelton family.
Thank you for being part of this journey! Click the button below to watch the highlights, featuring national and international award-winning Maryland-based poet Gayle Danley, whose work has been showcased on such media outlets as CBS and in The New York Times. You can learn more about Danley at HERE.
Photo Credit: Brant Sanderlin - Berry College
Cultural Advocacy.
The Shelton Heritage Society advocates for the preservation and recognition of the Shelton family’s historical contributions, both locally and nationally. Beyond historical documentation, the organization’s efforts include collaboration with descendants, community members, experts and organizations in history and preservation to ensure the Shelton family’s legacy is honored.
The Shelton Heritage Society of GA & Historic Possum Trot, Inc. (Shelton Heritage Society/SHS) is strongly committed to in-depth historical research. For over eight years, extensive genealogical and archival research, in which our leadership has played a critical role, has uncovered vital documents and other information contributing to the renaming of the Possum Trot Cemetery to the Shelton Family Cemetery and the installation of a historical marker on the site of the Shelton family’s historic Possum Trot settlement located at what is now known as Berry College. (Pictured: Shelton Family Settlement at Possum Trot historical marker installed 2021 - Dedicated 2022)
Research Curation.
Photo Credit: Brant Sanderlin - Berry College
Historic Preservation.
Not only does SHS raise awareness about the physical and cultural landmarks associated with the Shelton family’s history, but we are also engaged in preserving the family’s intangible heritage. Through a collaborative effort, we strive to preserve Shelton-connected historic sites, such as the former homestead of Lee and Frances “Fannie” Shelton Cathey in Robertson County, Texas, along with any related material culture and documentation.
Central to our mission is the belief that healing, empowerment, and transformation can come from reconnection and awareness of one’s legacy. Committed to reconnecting descendants of Hardy and Mary Bearden Shelton after decades of separation, SHS is also working to reestablish ties with the origin family of our ancestors. We strive to create a space where healing and unity can thrive. Could you be a descendant? If so, click the link below!
Legacy Cultivation & Reconnection.
According to oral history passed down by the descendants of Lee and Fannie Shelton Cathey, during the Great Depression, their children shared crops from their fields in Robertson County, Texas, with people of all races to help ensure no families went hungry. Across the nation, our family believes in helping others and has a strong tradition of giving back to their communities. At SHS, we believe in the undeniable impact of reaching back to help those in need.
Service to Our Community.
Listen as a descendant and one of the Cathey and Shelton family historians and genealogy researchers, describes the history of the Shelton family at Possum Trot, Hardy and Mary Bearden Shelton’s last known homestead in Rome, Georgia, and the impact of her fourth great grandparent’s legacy.
WCLK Atlanta Jazz Interview.
The Impact of Knowing One’s Family History
Watch as William Alexander Monroe, III, a third great-grandson of Pinkney and Laura Shelton Franklin, describes what being on the land of his ancestors and the cemetery where his ancestors rest means to him. Evidence suggests that Laura may be buried in the Shelton Family Cemetery at Possum Trot.
Photo Credit: Brant Sanderlin - Berry College
At SHS, we are deeply committed to restorative practices that promote healing and justice as we embark upon this sacred work. Our mission is not only to preserve and document the rich history of the Shelton family but also to address the historical injustices faced by our ancestors. Through restorative practices, we aim to reconnect descendants, rebuild relationships, and create a space for open dialogue about our shared heritage. We believe that by honoring the past and fostering a spirit of healing, we can move forward together, ensuring that the legacy of our ancestors, which is shared equally by all descendants, continues to inspire and uplift future generations.
A Sacred Work. Restorative Practices.
Upcoming Events & Announcements
150th Anniversary - Founding of Settlement
Join SHS as we celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the founding of the Shelton family settlement and reflect on lessons learned. We will also have a special guest in attendance.
Join SHS in celebrating the African American History Month with three exciting events. Click the link to learn more.
SHS Celebrates Black History Month!
Descendant On Stage - Life Lessons Series - From Private to Major - Christine Myles-Oates
Join us for the next Descendant On Stage: Life Lessons featuring Christine Myles Oates, a dedicated military soldier. Together, we’ll delve into her inspiring career journey, the life lessons she’s gained along the way, and the profound experience of discovering her family roots.
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Photo Credit: Deidra Roberson - Descendant
Photo Credit: Brant Sanderlin - Berry College
Photo Credit: Deidra Roberson - Descendant
Photo Credit: Deidra Roberson - Descendant